Horrors of Hell [11]

Hearing her words, Azriel's demeanor calmed slightly, though the atmosphere around him remained tense. Lumine and Yelena exchanged worried glances as they stepped back cautiously.

'Wait—Nol isn't here, which means he hasn't found a solution yet…'

This was an opportunity Azriel couldn't afford to miss.

Cole's soul echo had already dissipated, and he bowed, avoiding Joaquin's gaze. The soldiers stood by, torn between fear and morbid curiosity at what Joaquin might do next.

"Y-Your Majesty… I know the crime I committed last year, and I sincerely apologize. I've paid for my actions… for trying to approach Her Highness."

Gasps rippled through the crowd as they grasped the weight of Cole's confession. Lumine and Yelena looked to Jasmine and Azriel, now understanding his reaction.

"I have regretted it every day since then, I swear! I even risked my life to ensure the prince's safety!"